Soups - Chicken soup by Lorelei M. - Recipia
Country chicken soup with fluffy dumplings

*A recipe full of warmth and tradition, this country chicken soup is a true remedy for the soul. Its inviting flavors and simple yet quality ingredients transform this dish into an unforgettable experience. Whether served on chilly days or as a delight for a family meal, country chicken soup with dumplings is a classic that never goes out of style.*

Preparation time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Boiling: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Servings: 6

Ingredients
- 1 country chicken (approximately 1 kg), cut into pieces
- 2 large carrots, cut into large chunks
- 1 small celery, diced
- 1 large onion, quartered
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 raw egg
- Durum wheat (semolina), as needed
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Preparing the soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and chopping the vegetables. Cut the carrots into large chunks, and prepare the celery and onion to be added to the soup. Cut the country chicken into smaller pieces for even cooking.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the chicken pieces in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add salt and pepper to season the meat. Put the pot over medium heat and let it boil uncovered. This step is essential for achieving a clear broth.

3. Removing the foam: When the soup begins to boil, foam will form on top. Use a skimmer to carefully remove it. Wait until no more foam appears, which indicates that the soup is ready for the vegetables.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the foam has disappeared, add the carrots, onion, and celery to the pot. Let the soup simmer over medium heat for about 40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked.

Preparing the dumplings

5. Mixing the dumpling batter: In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt. Gradually add semolina, mixing continuously until you achieve a homogeneous mixture, but not too soft. It is important that the semolina is fresh to obtain fluffy dumplings.

6. Shaping the dumplings: Using a teaspoon, take small amounts of the semolina mixture and form dumplings. Make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.

7. Boiling the dumplings: Once the vegetables are cooked, carefully drop the dumplings into the soup. Be careful not to bring the soup to a boil, as the dumplings may not form correctly. Let them simmer gently for 10 minutes until they become fluffy.

Finalizing the soup

8. Seasoning the soup: After the dumplings are ready, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, add the freshly chopped parsley. It is recommended to add the parsley only after turning off the heat to preserve its fresh aroma.

9. Serving the soup: You can serve the soup hot, with the dumplings gracefully floating on top. A wonderful idea is to accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons, which will add a delicious texture.

Practical tips

- Choose a country chicken: Country chicken has tastier meat and a distinct flavor, making the soup truly special.
- Fresh semolina: This is the secret to fluffy dumplings. Make sure the semolina is fresh and of high quality for the best results.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the meat with mushrooms or vegetables, and the soup will be just as delicious. Add a splash of soy sauce for an extra umami flavor.
- Personal touches: You can add garlic or spices like bay leaves or peppercorns for a more complex aroma.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of chicken soup with dumplings contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is rich in protein, vitamins (especially vitamins A and C from the vegetables), and minerals, making it a nutritious and comforting dish.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use a regular chicken? Yes, but the soup will have a different taste. Country chicken is ideal for achieving a rich flavor.
- How can I store the soup? It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze the soup, but it's best not to freeze the dumplings, as they may lose their texture.
- What other recipes go well with the soup? Fresh salads or a vegetable tart are excellent to accompany a meal with chicken soup.

This country chicken soup with dumplings is more than just a recipe – it is a family story, a tradition passed down through generations. So, embrace the cooking process and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. Enjoy your meal!
Soups - Chicken soup by Lorelei M. - Recipia

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